In this short post, I’d like to express my UTMOST gratitude for PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION!
This is my public service announcement.
Commuters
Many people drive to work everyday. I am one of those people. I’ve commuted 70 miles to North Denver and back home every day for the last several years! Last year my dear little Toyota finally gave up. Luckily, I have amazing and helpful people in my life. In the short term, friends and family lent me an extra car here and there. That situation lasted 5-6 months or so. When summer arrived, I began taking public transportation. This changed my whole life. So many great things began happening!
Opening UP
Public transportation helped me break out of the usual routine I had been used to living. Instead of focusing on the very linear path before me while driving a car, I was able to focus on things I find more enjoyable! Reading, writing, listening to music and talking to other passengers. Life immediately became very relaxing in a way that I had almost forgotten. I was able to have face to face conversations, and countless hours to become absorbed in high interest activities as described above. Commuting takes longer than driving, which is wonderful, because there is additional time to focus on more important things than driving.
Friendships
I made some great friends and met new people on the light rail and RTD bus system. I met a lot of regular commuters that have taken the bus for years and prefer it over driving. I have stayed friends with many of these people and feel so fortunate to have met them!
Unexpected Adventures
While waiting for buses and transfers, I took the opportunity to try new cafes, visit unfamiliar shops and explore different haunts! Formerly, as a driver, I thought I was too busy to stop and check out new places. As a commuter, it felt natural to use the extra wait time creatively. I now feel different about time. There are the same number of hours in each day, and how I spend them is completely up to me. I highly recommend taking the slow route in life when possible! These moments are unforgettable…
New Car
I have much in life to be grateful for. I now have an awesome new car, however, I will still be using public transportation whenever possible.
Besides the personal reflections mentioned in this post, public transportation is a much more responsible way to travel. I often think about all the time I save and quality I add to my life. The environmental benefits are great as a commuter, as well as health and wellness perks! It’s an all around better idea to use public transportation as a regular mode of transportation.
